Synonyms

whistling

American

[hwis-ling, wis-] / ˈʰwɪs lɪŋ, ˈwɪs- /

noun

the act of a person or thing that whistles.
the sound produced.
Veterinary Pathology. a form of roaring characterized by a peculiarly shrill sound.

whistling British

/ ˈwɪslɪŋ /

noun

vet science a breathing defect of horses characterized by a high-pitched sound with each intake of air Compare roaring

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of whistling

before 900; Middle English; Old English hwistlung. See whistle, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Orange County” is my particular favorite track; it feels light and upbeat with some whistling throughout — yet lyrically explores grief while also giving this feeling of hope in the darkness.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2026

“Investors have been whistling by the inflation graveyard and ignoring signals from the Treasury curve, as we’ve broken above 4.5% and on a trajectory to go even higher,” he added.

From MarketWatch • May 18, 2026

"Losing and walking out whistling just isn't an option," he told Italian radio.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

At the same time, they create a high pitched sound by whistling inside the larynx.

From Science Daily • Feb. 25, 2026

When Pong heard him whistling, he was seized with terror.

From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023